Despite brain tumor, Michael Bolton ‘ain’t going down without a fight’
Michael Bolton gives brain tumor update and finds inspiration for a new song in his first interview since emergency glioblastoma surgery.
Battling back from emergency brain surgery may have inspired Michael Bolton‘s next hit tune.
“I got a title for a song: ‘Ain’t Going Down Without a Fight,'” the Grammy-winning crooner told People.
Nearly seventeen months after an operation to remove an aggressive tumor, the 72-year-old singer continues struggling with short-term memory, speech and mobility issues. But Bolton said in his first interview since treatment that he considers the challenge of recovery to be a test of character.
Bolton was diagnosed with glioblastoma in December 2023. Doctors were able to fully remove his tumor, which happens in up to 40% of such cases, according to People. He reportedly underwent a second brain surgery a month later due to an infection.
Glioblastoma has a very high chance or returning, but a test earlier this month by his doctors at Memorial Sloan Kettering showed the “When a Man Loves a Woman” performer to be in relatively good shape. A report published by the National Institutes of Health says the median survival rate for his cancer is 14 months.
Michael Bolton performs onstage during the 49th Daytime Emmy Awards at Pasadena Convention Center on June 24, 2022 in Pasadena, California. (Photo by Kevin Winter/Getty Images)
Bolton’s 47-year-old daughter Holly said her dad’s singing voice began wowing listeners once more while he was still hospitalized.
“Do you know he sings like this?” she recalled being asked by a nurse who was unfamiliar with her dad’s work.
Bolton reportedly takes voice lessons and practices voice therapy with a coach. He also mediates daily and golfs. The Connecticut native told People he’s focused on spending time with loved ones and making the most of however much time he has left.
“You have to be a cheerleader for yourself,” he said.